Giving inexpensive Christmas gifts doesn’t mean becoming cheap. As the saying goes, “It’s the thought that counts.” Of course giving away something as tacky as a piece of candy is just plain cheap. Make a Christmas list. Write down the names of those whom you want to give presents to with ideas and how much you’ll be willing to spend on them.

Most people love receiving homemade gifts, especially those that they can really use. Try to find out what they like so you can give them something they really want. Use your talents. If you’re a photographer, take one-of-a-kind pictures and have them framed. If you love to write, you can write poems or short stories. If you’re into music, you can compose a special song just for them. If you’re good at crafts, make jewellery or pretty boxes.

One similar gift to each person can also be an inexpensive way to give Christmas gifts. Cookies or cakes are good choices as everyone can appreciate this (and gain a few calories from it too).

Buy presents before the Christmas season. Often it is cheaper, too. It will save you from the hassle of standing for hours at a long line and you won’t have to squeeze your way through hoards of people rushing to buy late Christmas gifts.

There are a lot of other ways to save money this Christmas season; you just have to be creative.